Steps after Registration with the Secretary of State

Next you will need to obtain a business license from the Department of Revenue (DOR). 

• After formation, incorporation or registration, wait one business day and then complete a Business License Application if you have not already completed this step.
  • If you have any questions about the Business License Application, visit the DOR page - Apply for a Business License, or contact the Business License Services team.

Each link provides a summary of requirements from the listed State and Federal agencies.

Department of Labor and Industries (LnI)

1. Workers’ Compensation Insurance

   • If your business hires employees, you're generally required to register with L&I to provide workers’ compensation insurance.
   • This protects employees in case of work-related injuries or illnesses.

2. Employer Account Setup

   • When registering a business through the Washington Business Licensing Service (BLS), you can simultaneously set up your L&I employer account.
   • L&I will assign you an account manager and send a packet with your Workers' Comp Account ID and a Participant Activation Code (PAC).
   • Go to My L&I: Login or Sign Up and click "Sign Up".
   • Use the PAC from your packet to activate your account and gain secure access to online services.
   • This account is used to report wages and pay premiums for workers’ comp.

3. Safety and Health Regulations

   • L&I enforces workplace safety standards under Washington Industrial Safety and Health Act (WISHA).
   • Businesses may need to comply with safety inspections, training requirements, and reporting obligations.

4. Contractor Registration

   • If you're in construction or a related field, L&I handles contractor registration and licensing.
   • This includes verifying bonding, insurance, and compliance with state laws.

5. Prevailing Wage and Apprenticeship Programs

   • L&I oversees prevailing wage laws for public works projects.
   • It also manages apprenticeship program registrations and standards.

Visit the Department of Labor and Industries (LnI) Contact page.
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Employee Security Department (ESD)

1. Unemployment Insurance (UI)

   • If your business has employees, you must register with ESD to pay unemployment insurance taxes.
   • These taxes fund benefits for workers who lose their jobs through no fault of their own.

2. Employer Account Setup

   • Like L&I, ESD accounts are typically set up during the Business License Application process through the Business Licensing Service (BLS).
   • You’ll receive an ESD account number to report wages and pay UI taxes.

3. Wage Reporting

   • Employers must report employee wages quarterly to ESD.
   • This data is used to calculate unemployment benefits and monitor labor market trends.

4. Workforce Services

   • ESD offers recruitment support, job posting services, and access to workforce training programs.
   • Businesses can use ESD resources to find qualified candidates and upskill employees.

5. Compliance and Audits

   • ESD conducts audits to ensure proper wage reporting and UI tax payments.
   • Non-compliance can result in penalties or interest charges.

Visit the Employee Security Department (ESD) Contact page.

​Federal Internal Revenue Service (IRS)

The IRS requires business entities to receive an Employer Identification Number (EIN).

• Visit the IRS website for additional details on how to apply for an EIN through their online portal.
• Visit the IRS – Let us Help you page for more information and contact information.

Maintaining your Business

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